OnQ Blog

Qualcomm 205 Mobile Platform designed to bring 4G LTE connectivity to more people in more places

20 Mar 2017

Qualcomm products mentioned within this post are offered by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.

Across the globe, over 2 billion mobile users rely on strong, consistent connectivity to conduct sales, track deliveries, share data, and communicate. While the full potential of 4G is beginning to unfold for some, there are many places around the world where 3G — and even 2G — is still the reality.

It’s with this in mind that Qualcomm Technologies introduces the Qualcomm 205 Mobile Platform, designed specifically for feature phones to include 4G LTE. The platform is engineered to allow these phones to take advantage of fast connectivity, and to deliver 4G LTE speeds to users who, until now, may not have had the ability to access these networks. The Qualcomm 205 Mobile Platform can allow device manufacturers and network operators to offer 4G connectivity and services to more people with high-quality, affordable devices.

The local impact of 4G

Bringing 4G and other advanced connectivity features to more people can have a profound effect on both an area’s residents and its businesses. For example, local textile shops, fishermen, and health care workers — which make up a large percentage of local commerce in regions throughout India, Southeast Asia, and South America — can now enjoy the benefits of modern wireless data services.

We’ve seen the impact that Qualcomm Technologies’ investments in developing communities can have both economically and environmentally. Take India, where small-scale fishing is a primary source of family income. New access to affordable devices has greatly enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of these small operations. The Fisher Friend mobile app from Qualcomm Wireless Reach, for example, is made to provide real-time weather and ocean condition updates to local fishermen with mobile devices, as well as the ability to track both inventory expenses and sales. The app is now being used by 2,000 fishermen and has helped rescue 40 who were caught in dangerous weather conditions.

Unpacking the 205

One segment the Qualcomm 205 Mobile Platform is designed for is developing areas that previously were unable to gain access to high-quality, consistent, and affordable mobile connectivity. It incorporates the Qualcomm 205 Mobile SoC, which features the processing system as well as a variety of hardware components. And while India and countries in regions like Southeast Asia and Africa continue to see sizeable percentages of feature phone shipments, the opportunity for these phones exists worldwide.

The SoC is designed to support a more robust and complete mobile experience in areas currently lacking 4G connections. Along with a dual-core CPU and Qualcomm Adreno GPU, it features support for Wi-Fi and advanced LTE data services such as Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWi-Fi).

Pin compatible with Qualcomm Snapdragon 210/212, the 205 SoC includes a 4G LTE Cat 4 modem for downloads up to 150 Mbps as well as support for 3G and 2G networks. Fast downloads and strong encryption features may result in new opportunities for small businesses and micro-entrepreneurs who can gain new ways to accept and send payments, access bank accounts, and track expenses. Multi-day battery life means a reduced need to charge, an important factor for individuals and businesses who may not always have access to a reliable power source.

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